German doctors warn of physician shortage and funding cuts

Representatives from the Freie Ärzteschaft (FÄ) are warning that political decisions and insurance regulations are making private medical practices increasingly unattractive, potentially worsening the nationwide physician shortage and increasing patient wait times.

Wieland Dietrich, chairman of the FÄ, stated that the GKV-Beitragssatzstabilisierungsgesetz (referred to as the GKV savings law) will impact outpatient medicine severely starting in 2027. He estimates that more than 2.5 billion euros will be withdrawn from outpatient medicine annually, with reduced compensation for rapid appointment scheduling and open consultation hours.

Additionally, Wolfgang Bartels of the FÄ North Rhine regional association criticized the Law for Data and Digital Innovation (GeDIG). He argued that the law's requirements to manage appointments through central internet portals or patient apps could lead to chaotic regulations that undermine both patients and doctors.